Online Learning ANYTIME • ANYWHERE

Readiness Assessment

The following questionnaire is for your benefit only. To find out whether online learning is right for you, please respond to these questions honestly. You must make a selection for each question to proceed with results! When you are finished, click on "submit."

Your Name:
*

Online course interested in: *

Your e-mail address (optional):

Note: If you enter your email, the results will be sent to you.

1. How regularly will you be able to log on to the internet to work on this course?

a) Only once a week.

b) At least twice a week.

c) Probably once every two weeks.

d) I don't know for sure.

2. Do you know how to use a web browser (Firefox or Internet Explorer) to get around the net?

a) Yes. I browse the net frequently.
b) Somewhat. I have not had much exposure to it.
c) I have only seen my friends use it.
d) No, but I am willing to learn.

3. Do you know how to use a standard word processor, such as Microsoft Word, Microsoft Works, or Word Perfect?

a) Yes. I am pretty comfortable with word processing.
b) Somewhat. I rely on the help of lab aides.
c) I don't know the name of my word processor.
d) No.

4. Do you have basic knowledge of email?

a) Yes. I have an email account.
b) No, but I can learn.
c) No. I prefer "snail mail."
d) I don't know how email works.

5. How comfortable are you working with computers?

a) I find working with computers interesting.
b) I always seem to mess up my system's settings.
c) I don't like computers, but I understand that they are important today.
d) I am not sure how I feel about technology.

6. How will you handle the situation if your computer (or software) breaks down at some point during the course?

a) I expect my instructor to be understanding and give me extensions.
b) I will get it fixed immediately and will use another system in the meantime.
c) I cannot afford for things to go wrong.
d) Nothing will go wrong. I have good equipment.

7. Can you meet deadlines without needing frequent prodding?

a) I tend to fall behind most of the time.
b) I am a terrible procrastinator.
c) I generally meet my deadlines.
d) It depends on whether or not I like the project.

8. Will you be able to set aside some time to participate in weekly online discussions?

a) Yes. I have budgeted time for this course.
b) Not weekly. I am too busy.
c) Maybe. My schedule varies from week to week.
d) I do not know for sure.

9. How capable are you of determining main ideas and concepts when reading your college textbooks?

a) I am a good reader.
b) I prefer listening to reading about things.
c) I have to hear information in order to retain it.
d) I usually don't remember what I read.
e) I don't know the level of my reading skills.

10. Are you a self-motivated, independent learner?

a) I find studying alone a positive challenge.
b) I need the stimulation of a group.
c) I like working alone, but I need frequent prodding.
d) It depends on the season.

11. Which of the following describes your time management skills?

a) I need to be reminded of deadlines.
b) For the most part, I get things done on time.
c) I often miss deadlines because I am doing too much.
d) I am not very organized with my time.

12. How much time do you expect to spend studying for this course?

a) I can dedicate about four to six hours a week for studying.
b) The same amount as attending and studying for a traditional course (10 hours).
c) Less time since the class does not meet.
d) I do not know what to expect.

13. How good are you at following directions on assignments?

a) I like it when instructors go over homework directions orally.
b) I have difficulty understanding directions and frequently need clarification.
c) I can read and follow directions on my own.
d) I cannot follow directions very well.

14. Do you know how to turn your system on and off properly?

a) Yes. I know my system's "shut down" process.
b) Yes. I just press the power switch.
c) No, but I am willing to learn.
d) I am not sure what you mean by "properly."

15. Are you comfortable using a mouse?

a) Yes.
b) Somewhat, but I need to work on it.
c) No, I prefer using the keyboard.
d) I don't like rodents.

16. How good are your keyboarding skills?

a) I am a decent typist. I type my own work.
b) I use the "hunt and peck" approach; it's painfully slow, but I get the job done.
c) I have others type my papers for a small fee. :-)
d) I am an awful typist!

17. Are you comfortable with file management on your computer, such as moving files around different directories and drives, saving files, or deleting files?

a) Yes. I am pretty comfortable.
b) Somewhat. I cannot always find my files.
c) No, but I can get help from friends or family members.
d) No, but I am a quick learner.

18. Have you used a browser to surf the net?

a) Yes. I spend quite a bit of time on the net.
b) Some. My friends seem to spend endless hours on it.
c) Very little, but I can learn how to use it.
d) I don't know what you mean by "browser."

19. How will you handle the situation if your internet connection is interrupted for a period of time?

a) I will use a lab on campus or a friend's computer.
b) I will wait until things get resolved.
c) I will ask the instructor for extensions on the assignments.
d) I will get very upset. I do not like it when things go wrong.

20. How do you feel about taking a class over the internet?

a) I don't have time to take a traditional class.
b) I am nervous about it. I am not sure it is for me.
c) I do not look forward to it, but I need the course.
d) I look forward to the experience.

Please check your answers.
When you are sure you have finished, click on Submit.

Developed by Vivian Sinou as part of a grant from the Chancellor's Office
for the California Community College Distance Learning Consortium, 1999-2000.
May use freely as long as proper acknowledgment is given.